Can a divorced Catholic receive Communion?

A divorced Catholic may receive Communion if he or she is otherwise properly disposed and not conscious of unconfessed mortal sin. Civil divorce alone does not separate someone from the Church or automatically bar the sacraments.

Divorce itself. A spouse may be innocent of the divorce or may have accepted civil divorce because it was the only practical way to protect children, property, or legal rights. The Church recognizes that civil divorce can sometimes be tolerated for such reasons (CCC 2383). A divorced person who has not attempted another marriage remains free to receive Communion, provided the usual conditions are met. Any serious sins connected with the breakdown of the marriage should be brought to confession, but the legal status of being divorced is not itself a sacramental penalty.

A new civil marriage. The situation changes when a Catholic enters a new sexual union while the first spouse is still living and the first marriage has not been declared null. Every marriage is presumed valid until the contrary is proven (Canon 1060). Christ taught that remarriage after divorce can constitute adultery because the original marital bond remains (Mk 10:11-12). The Catechism therefore teaches that divorced Catholics who have entered a civil remarriage cannot receive Eucharistic Communion while that situation persists (CCC 1650).

Why Communion is affected. The Eucharist expresses full communion with Christ and fidelity to His commandments. Someone conscious of grave sin must receive sacramental absolution before Communion (CCC 1385; Canon 916). Genuine absolution includes contrition and a sincere purpose of amendment. Personal culpability can be reduced by fear, pressure, ignorance, or other factors (CCC 1735), so individuals should speak honestly with a faithful priest rather than assume either guilt or innocence. The objective meaning of marriage still remains.

Possible paths forward. A divorced and civilly remarried Catholic should continue attending Mass, praying, raising children in the faith, and taking part in parish life. The person can also ask a tribunal to examine whether the first marriage was valid. If serious responsibilities require the couple to remain under one roof, they may receive absolution and Communion when they sincerely commit to complete sexual continence and avoid giving scandal.

Speak privately with a priest about the facts of your situation. Bring any serious sin to confession, ask whether an annulment case is appropriate, and keep coming to Mass even when Communion cannot presently be received.